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Elevated Arch Form Enhancing Urban Connectivity Through Elevated Transit

Authors:
Peihao Jin, Hangpang Fan
Elevated Arch Form Enhancing Urban Connectivity Through Elevated Transit

Project in-detail

An elevated arch structure redefines urban circulation and enhances pedestrian connectivity in Dongmen, Shenzhen, while creating a vibrant environment for mixed-use spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated roadway separates pedestrian and vehicle traffic for enhanced safety.
02
Interconnected ground level promotes fluid movement throughout the urban area.
03
Arch structures create a visually cohesive link to the adjacent skyscraper.
04
Design emphasizes natural light and airflow within office spaces.
05
Focus on user well-being redefines traditional skyscraper functionality.

Cloud Tower is located in the historic Dongmen area of Shenzhen, China. The design addresses urban challenges such as narrow streets and traffic congestion, rethinking public space by focusing on cloud, light, and air. The elevated structure integrates these concepts, changing the urban landscape while improving the everyday experience for residents and visitors.

Design Concept

The design lifts the road to create an overpass that separates vehicle and pedestrian traffic. This approach decreases congestion and makes navigation safer and easier for people. The arch structures not only support the elevated roadway but also connect visually to the skyscraper nearby, contributing to a unified architectural identity in the area.

Spatial Organization

At ground level, the layout features interconnected spaces that facilitate movement and accessibility. By prioritizing pedestrian pathways, the design reduces vehicle interference. This encourages interactions among residents and invites people to explore the environment. The thoughtful arrangement creates a pleasant flow throughout the urban area, enhancing daily experiences.

Light and Air Integration

Cloud Tower values natural elements like light and air in its overall design. By allowing sunlight and fresh air to enter the office spaces, the design nurtures a comfortable and productive atmosphere. This project rethinks traditional skyscraper design, emphasizing well-being and exploring how urban spaces can encourage relaxation and social engagement.

Structures and Aesthetics

The use of arch forms adds visual interest and structural support throughout the design. This architectural choice creates diverse spatial arrangements and enhances the overall appeal of the urban environment. The result reflects a balance of form and function, leading to an inviting and practical setting.

The façade of the overpass allows light to enter in a filtered way, creating a soft transition between the inside and outside. This design invites interaction with the surroundings and enhances the overall experience of the space.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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